Cupra Tindaya in the spotlight: Between concept and series

A prototype that seems tangible in every respect, but perhaps holds even more exciting potential than its lines and stylistic ideas, which once again hit the mark. The Cupra Tindaya bears the name of the sacred volcanic mountain on Fuerteventura. It's a crossover with massive, powerful proportions—and at the same time, full of interesting approaches, both inside and out.

Of course, some things will still change. But in conversations with the Spanish brand 's designers—and even more so with its communications people—the inevitable impression emerged that this prototype is already very close to series production. With a clear warning: "Don't get lost in technical speculation, it could be misleading."

No sooner said than done: When we saw this project, we gave it some thought, also with an eye on the global market.

Crossover with personality

Let's start with what's actually visible. The Tindaya measures 4.72 meters—the only reliable measurement from the manufacturer—and, according to PR jargon, is supposed to evoke colors and proportions from the volcanic rocks and natural forms of that rugged but inspiring landscape.

The matte paintwork shimmers in shades of gray from front to rear. The true character, however, lies in the lines: The front end is strongly reminiscent of a shark's face, with deep incisions and precise elements that emphasize the hood—and remember that word—dominant.

Cupra Tindaya, details of the front end

Image by: Cupra

Below, in place of a traditional radiator, sits a display with impressive fluorescent images. Certainly part of the concept car, but more likely a design concept. The side view appears athletic and muscular, with a strong interplay of light, materials, and details. The rear fenders, for example, are not made of carbon fiber, as one might expect, but of Bicomp—a composite material with linen fibers. The result nevertheless appears extremely high-quality.

This is precisely what's typical of Cupra . As is the proportions: one-third between the roof and the beltline, two-thirds below. The roof itself is supported by striking Y-shaped elements that resemble a spine – and two roof inserts are removable.

The Cupra Tindaya, the rear with a very important design work

Image by: Cupra

Finally, the rear is dominated by a large diffuser. Above it, two key elements stand out: the centrally positioned Cupra logo, the illuminated tribal, and the taillights, which appear as a continuous band on one side and as three small, sculpted triangles on the other. And those who appreciate details should definitely take a look at the cleverly designed exterior mirrors.

Advanced interior

Opening the opposing doors, your gaze is immediately drawn to the seats, which appear to float – unusual, but stylistically exciting. However, two elements attract even more attention: the yoke steering wheel , this time with physical buttons and satellites, and the idea of ​​more driver-focused settings. Certainly appealing to enthusiasts, perhaps almost too much so. This impression is reinforced by the 24-inch screen, which even displays a digital tachometer up to 6,000 rpm – a clear indication of a possible internal combustion engine.

Image by: Cupra

Cupra Tindaya, the bell in yoke style

Image by: Cupra

The biggest innovation, however, is at the rear: a screen system at the bottom edge of the rear window – not a projection, but an actual display.

The center console runs like a spine through the interior, separating the front and rear seats and transforming the car into a 2+2 configuration. This is where the "prism," also known as "the jewel," sits – a central control element that activates lighting and audio elements and personalizes the onboard experience.

Car of the future

Beyond all that meets the eye, a conversation with the Cupra people makes it clear: The Tindaya is more than just a show car. It's intended to point the way in a new direction – less in terms of design, but more in terms of technology. The design language seems more like a logical evolution of existing successful formulas than a radical revolution. But technically, something entirely new could emerge here.

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The proportions—the dominant hood, the short overhangs—suggest that something lurks beneath the surface, demanding space. It's easy to imagine that this car could be a Trojan horse for a new engine technology. An idea that almost suggests itself when looking at the overall picture.

Photo gallery: Cupra Tindaya 2025